What does an accounts receivable officer do?
An accounts receivable officer is a member of an organisation’s finance team and ensures that products and services are invoiced promptly and correctly, and paid on time. This includes maintaining customer accounts and using accounting software to generate invoices, credit notes and reminders, and posting receipts for incoming payments in a timely manner.
Accounts receivable officers work in a wide variety of industries and settings, from large corporations through educational institutions and non-profits to accounting firms.
Accounts receivable skills and qualifications
Strong candidates often demonstrate strong data entry skills and excellent attention to detail, which may be important for success in this role. An understanding of accounting principles and the accounts receivable process are also valuable competencies that set top candidates apart. To perform their role well, a successful accounts receivable officer needs to have the following skills and aptitudes:
- excellent data entry skills
- knowledge of accounting principles and accounts receivable processes
- strong organisational skills and attention to detail
- ability to work independently
- experience with using Microsoft Excel and accounting software such as MYOB, XERO or Quickbooks.
Accounts receivable experience requirements
Although many budding finance professionals choose to pursue a formal qualification, this is not mandatory to work in an accounts receivable role. This means it can be an entry-level position if a hiring business is open to bringing staff with entry-level experience on board.
However, even an accounts receivable officer with no previous work experience should have strong numerical skills and experience using standard Microsoft Office programs, especially Excel. Previous experience in roles requiring good attention to detail would be an advantage.
Accounts receivable education and training requirements
Although no formal qualifications are required to work in an accounts receivable role in Australia, many employers still prefer to hire applicants who have at least some training in bookkeeping or accountancy.
You may want to look for applicants who have completed a Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping or a Diploma of Accounting at a TAFE or another registered training organisation. Other applicants may have no formal qualification but have already gained some experience in the role. Who you choose to hire is ultimately down to your company culture and preferences.
Accounts receivable salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for an accounts receivable officer is $75,387 per year. Salary level is influenced by a number of factors, including the company, location and the candidate’s experience.
Job description samples for similar positions
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